COVID-19 update

As of March 20, all Strathcona County in-person services are closed to the public; however phone and email support continue to be available. View the latest facility openings and closures. Strathcona County has taken measures to support Alberta Health’s priority to limit larger social gatherings in our community. Mental health supports available. For more information, visit strathcona.ca/covid19

Funding now available to boost community connections: apply today!

As part of the County’s ongoing efforts to nurture community connections, residents are invited to apply for Community Small Grants funding (up to $750 per application) to host neighbourhood gatherings or projects that promote a sense of belonging and connection. The total grant budget for 2018 is $50,000.

Strathcona County’s Community Small Grants program contributes to the Social Framework outcome of connectedness and inclusion. The grants support County citizens with small but powerful ideas to bring people together and make their neighbourhood vibrant.

Examples of events include:

Block party

Neighbourhood games night

Cultural potluck

Holiday tradition sharing

Last year, 57 Community Small Grants applications were approved with a total of $50,000 invested in increasing community connections. Resident-initiated events included block parties, an open stage to share talents, neighbourhood parades and cultural diversity celebrations. Some results shared by post-grant recipients include neighbours providing pet, house and babysitting services, neighbours assisting with maintenance and tree removal, and children feeling safer while they play.

Residents are invited to discuss funding ideas with Family and Community Services staff by calling 780-464-4044. Grant applications must meet one or more of the following goals: 1) connect and engage neighbours, 2) share neighbours’ skills and knowledge or 3) respect and celebrate neighbourhood diversity. Neighbourhood gatherings and projects must be free or low cost, accessible and welcoming to all. Events must take place between May 15 and December 31, 2018.

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75% of refining in Western Canada. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.